Restaurant Review: Gyu-Kaku

Last weekend, I tried a fairly new restaurant in Brookline –Gyu-Kaku – that had opened its first location in Mass. back in April 2013. Gyu-Kaku is a chain restaurant with over 700 locations worldwide and features Japanese Barbecue cuisine. In short, it’s indoor grilling. Customers can order raw, specially-marinated a la carte items from the menu and cook the food themselves – a fun concept and dining experience. The staff are helpful and will explain the process and cook time to newcomers. Besides barbecue, there are also various cooked appetizers, rice and noodle dishes that you can order. I had a great dining experience and already look forward to returning soon. I especially love the renovations done to the space (formerly Ginza restaurant): trendy atmosphere, private seating areas, sleek bar, and unfolded windows during breezy summer nights.

My dining companions and I shared the Shogun Party Course for 4 people. This included 5 appetizers/side dishes, 10 BBQ dishes (assorted meat, seafood, and vegetables), and s’mores dessert, all for a set price. Though the food was all very delicious, it would probably not satisfy those with larger appetites. The meats and seafood were marinated well, and the smoky flavor from the grill made it all the better. My favorite item was the Toro beef, which had the fattiness and taste of bacon. There were a few sauces (ponzu, spicy, and soy) at the table for dipping the cooked meat. The bibimbap side dish (Korean hot rice bowl with egg, sliced meat, and sauteed vegetables) was another favorite – as good as local Korean restaurants. We also tried the garlic fried noodles, which was garlicky as expected and had a nice texture. Lastly, the s’mores as a “light” dessert was the perfect ending to a heavy meal. Next time, I would like to try the green tea mille crepe cake, which always sells out fast.

If you’re looking to try a new restaurant in the area, I would definitely suggest a visit to Gyu-Kaku! The restaurant also features some attractive ongoing specials and happy hour deals too.